The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) announced the Padma Awards 2026 on January 25, 2026 — the eve of India's 77th Republic Day — with President Droupadi Murmu approving conferment of 131 awards including 2 duo cases. The list comprises 5 Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan, and 113 Padma Shri awards. The awardee demographics include 19 women, 6 foreign/NRI/OCI recipients, 16 posthumous honours, and 2 duo awards (each counted as one). Among the Padma Vibhushan recipients are actor Dharmendra Singh Deol and former Kerala Chief Minister V.S. Achuthanandan (posthumous). Padma Bhushan recipients include Malayalam superstar Mammootty and playback singer Alka Yagnik. From Rajasthan, the Padma Shri 2026 awardees include Gafruddin Mewati Jogi (Art), Taga Ram Bheel (Art), Swami Brahmdev Ji Maharaj (Social Work). The Padma Awards — instituted in 1954 — are among India's highest civilian awards, awarded annually in three categories: Padma Vibhushan (exceptional and distinguished service), Padma Bhushan (distinguished service of a high order), and Padma Shri (distinguished service). Nominations are accepted from citizens and the awards are conferred by the President at Rashtrapati Bhavan in ceremonial functions held during March–April. The 2026 edition recognises 45 awardees in the 'Unsung Heroes' category, celebrating contributions in arts, literature, sports, medicine, social work, science, and public affairs from across India.